Incubating/Hatching Duck Eggs

[Lextextrapper]

This will be my first time to try hatching duck eggs. Can I incubate them at the same humidity level as my chicks? Are there any helpful hints for hatching ducks?

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Starting on day 10, cool the eggs for 10 min per day and mist them with water during that cool down period. Hatching humidity of 75%

 

[Lextextrapper]

Quote:
Thanks, I guess I better fire up the other incubator and get it ready before the eggs arrive.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

Cooling is typically only done if you have a still air incubator. I'm not sure what type of incubator you have. With a forced-air model, you don't need to worry about cooling.

You will want to turn the eggs 180 degrees, three times a day minimum.

I think it helps to mist them with lukewarm water once a day from about day 10 or so until 24-48 hrs before pipping. My book says 24-48 hrs before hatching, but I've also read you shouldn't spray a pipped egg.

Stop turning 3 days before the hatch is due -- they are usually due at day 28.

I'm trying to remember, but I think incubation humidity is about 55%, and, yes, hatch humidity is 75%. You want to get that humidity up before they pip externally. Also, if you have washed the eggs the humidity needs to be higher than I have stated.

Once they pip externally it can take up to 36-48 hrs for them to hatch. They are slow to get the shell zippered.

First candling should be about day 7-10.

Edited for clarification.

 

[DrakeMaiden]

This site is a GREAT resource. I would recommend you print this out and keep it handy, in case anything goes wrong. Good luck and have fun!

 

[Lextextrapper]

Thanks for all the good info and link to the website. I have one of the Sportsman 1502's but it's full right now, so I think the duck eggs may go in the old forced air styrofoam bator with egg turner.

 

[One Acre Wonder Farm]

Thanks for the link DrakeMaiden! That site is very helpful!

I stop turning my eggs on my very first attempt at hatching tomorrow. I am so excited!

 

[SundownWaterfowl]

Quote:
I use a forced air brinsea octagon 40, and have always cooled and misted the duck eggs. IMO cooling should be done no matter what type of incubator is used.